In collaboration with lake managers and local governments, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is gearing up for an active summer season by continuing to educate and inform the public on water safety measures to help reduce the risk of fatalities.

The safety of their patrons is the number one priority for recreation activities at their lakes. The public can best support their efforts by taking advantage of educational opportunities afforded to them by rangers and familiarizing themselves with state rules and Corps' regulations to enjoy a safe recreational experience.This year's campaign theme is "Think Five, Stay Alive" focusing on common missteps that can help reduce fatalities:* Wear a life vest.* Do not mix alcohol with any water related activities, especially motorized watercraft.* Keep children in clear view at all times and watch for others in your group.* Know your physical limits.* Review boating safety measures, attending training before operating watercraft.Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer where many visitors will take advantage of camping, boating, swimming and hiking. Remaining aware, removing alcohol from activities and applying the Corps "Think Five" in all activities is a great way to assist in preventing fatalities.The Corps of Engineers recently announced a partnership with accepting the America the Beautiful Federal Recreation Pass Program's new Interagency Annual Pass for Military at Corps-managed recreation areas nationwide. Passes are for boat launches and swimming areas. More information on the pass can be found at

http://store.usgs.gov/pass/military.html.The Corps of Engineers' Baltimore District has three recreation sites: Raystown and Tioga-Hammond and Cowanesque in Pennsylvania, and Jennings Randolph in West Virginia.For more information on these sites and recreation activities, visit:

http://www.nab.usace.army.mil/Recreation/.